Vegetarian Black Eyed Peas and Greens Recipe Made Easy

Welcome to a delicious journey into Southern-inspired comfort food with a healthy, vegetarian twist! Our Vegetarian Black Eyed Peas and Greens recipe is a hearty, nutritious, and flavorful dish that combines tender black eyed peas with vibrant leafy greens.

This meal is not only perfect for those who follow a vegetarian lifestyle but also for anyone seeking a wholesome, plant-based option packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a dish to celebrate the New Year with traditional Southern flair, this recipe fits the bill perfectly.

Plus, it’s simple to make, budget-friendly, and versatile enough to customize according to your taste.

Black eyed peas have long been associated with good luck and prosperity, especially when paired with greens, which symbolize wealth. Beyond tradition, this dish offers a comforting blend of flavors and textures, from the creamy beans to the earthy greens and the savory spices that bring it all together.

Dive in and discover why this vegetarian black eyed peas and greens recipe is destined to become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a celebration of wholesome ingredients and Southern-inspired flavors, reimagined for a vegetarian diet. Here’s why it stands out:

• Nutritious and Filling: Black eyed peas are a fantastic source of plant-based protein and fiber, while the greens (such as collard, kale, or Swiss chard) add a boost of vitamins A, C, and K.
• Simple and Affordable: Made with pantry staples and fresh greens, this recipe won’t break the bank or take hours to prepare.
• Flexible and Customizable: Use your favorite greens or add spices and aromatics to suit your palate.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish keeps well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for busy weeks.
• Plant-Based Comfort Food: No meat needed to enjoy a deeply flavorful, satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried black eyed peas (or 2 cups canned, drained and rinsed)
• 4 cups fresh greens (collard greens, kale, or Swiss chard), roughly chopped
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
• Optional: 1 diced tomato for added freshness
• Optional garnish: chopped green onions or fresh parsley

Equipment

• Large bowl for soaking (if using dried peas)
• Colander
• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Can opener (if using canned peas)

Instructions

1. Prepare the black eyed peas. If using dried peas, rinse them thoroughly and soak in a large bowl of water overnight or for at least 6 hours. Drain and rinse before cooking. If using canned peas, simply drain and rinse.
2. Sauté aromatics. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add spices. Stir in the smoked paprika, ground cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 30 seconds to toast the spices and enhance their flavors.
4. Cook the peas. Add the soaked and drained black eyed peas to the pot. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 40-50 minutes, or until the peas are tender. If using canned peas, simmer for 15 minutes to meld flavors.
5. Add the greens and tomato. Stir in the chopped greens and diced tomato (if using). Cover and simmer for another 10-15 minutes until the greens are wilted and tender.
6. Season to taste. Add salt, black pepper, and apple cider vinegar or lemon juice. Adjust seasoning as needed to brighten the dish.
7. Serve and garnish. Ladle the black eyed peas and greens into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions or parsley if desired. Enjoy warm!

Tips & Variations

For a smoky flavor without meat, try adding a few drops of liquid smoke or smoked paprika.
Use different greens like mustard greens or turnip greens for variety.
For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of coconut milk or cashew cream before serving.
Consider adding diced sweet potatoes or carrots during the simmering step for extra heartiness.
Use a slow cooker for hands-off preparation; cook soaked peas with broth and aromatics on low for 6-8 hours, adding greens in the last hour.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This Vegetarian Black Eyed Peas and Greens dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides to create a complete meal. Here are some ideas to try:

• Serve over fluffy brown rice or quinoa for a filling grain bowl.
• Accompany with Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves to soak up the flavorful broth.
• Pair with cornbread or a crusty whole grain bread for a Southern-inspired feast.
• Add a side of roasted root vegetables or a fresh salad for extra texture and nutrients.
• Explore more green-based recipes like the Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals to complement your meal.

Conclusion

This vegetarian black eyed peas and greens recipe showcases how simple ingredients can come together to create a nourishing, flavorful, and satisfying meal. Whether you’re embracing plant-based eating or just want a comforting dish that honors Southern culinary traditions, this recipe hits all the right notes.

It’s packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it a healthy choice for any season.

From the tender black eyed peas to the vibrant, leafy greens and aromatic spices, each bite offers warmth and depth of flavor. Plus, it’s easy to customize and works well for meal prep or quick dinners.

Give this recipe a try and enjoy a taste of wholesome, vegetarian comfort food!

For more delicious vegetarian and vegan recipes, be sure to check out Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals and the delightful Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious. Happy cooking!

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